Central Queensland set to sizzle

LITTLE Jada Ryan had the right idea by covering up from the sun yesterday as she enjoyed a cooling off at an Emu Park beach.

After a cooler start to summer it appears temperatures are set to sizzle across CQ.

As the mercury rises authorities are warning people to take proper precautions.

Temperatures are predicted to reach almost 40 degrees across inland Central Queensland in the coming days, while across the Rockhampton region it will climb to the mid 30s.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster for Rockhampton Mike Marrinan said Rocky wouldn't quite reach the sizzling heights of further inland.

"I think we'll get up to the mid 30s by the weekend but the Rockhampton area won't get much higher than that," Mr Marrinan said.

"Places like Clermont, Rolleston in the Central Highlands will get close to the 40 degrees."

The Queensland Ambulance Service is warning people to keep cool and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illness.

The service's Central Region acting assistant commissioner Michelle Baxter said consecutive hot days could often lead to heat-related illness, especially in children and the elderly.

Ms Baxter said the best way to prevent heat-related illness was to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and coffee, which can cause dehydration, and keep your home well-ventilated.

"The signs and symptoms of heat-related illness include flushed or pale skin, cramps, fainting/collapse, nausea/vomiting, headaches and dizziness, and a rapid pulse, disorientation and/or drowsiness," she said.

"Open your windows and doors, and use fans and air-conditioners at home."